Planning a beach getaway to Koh Samui? Not sure when to visit, what to do, or which attractions/islands are worth checking out? This guide has got your back!
Based on our on-site experiences and local insights, it covers everything from best time to visit and top things to do to transportation, budget and handy travel tips.
Top Things to Do in Koh Samui
Whether you want to unwind with a beachside massage, dive into vibrant coral reefs, or just join in a beach party- we've got the insider ideas on how to experience the real Koh Samui.
1. Relax on the Beaches
beach of Koh SamuiKoh Samui's beaches are famous for their pristine, soft, and powdery white sand. Here are some top ones.
Chaweng – The island's most famous beach. Here you could enjoy vibrant nightlife with beachfront cocktails and fire shows at sunset. Hit the calm waves for jet-skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding. For a chill vibe, head to the quieter northern end with clearer waters and fewer crowds.
Lamai Beach – Romantic & relaxed vibe. Catch great shots of the iconic rock formations (Grandpa & Grandma Rocks) and breathtaking coastal views. Snorkel in the clear sea, and don't miss the tasty local seafood at Lamai Night Food Market after sunset.
Maenam Beach – Quiet and peaceful. It is deal for sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely walks. Hike to Maenam viewpoint for stunning sunset views. Explore beachfront dining and shopping options at Maenam Walking Street market.
2. A Day Tour to Ang Thong Marine Park
Ang-Thong-National-Marine-ParkAs one of the most popular activities in Koh Samui, a day tour to Ang Thong Marine Park is a must for nature and adventure lovers!
Here you could explore the park's stunning limestone cliffs, hidden lagoons, and mangrove forests by kayaking through the crystal-clear waters. Try to discover the park's diverse marine life by snorkeling around coral reefs. For the ultimate reward, consider climbing up one of the small hilly islands to see the fantastic panoramic view of Ang Thong Marine Park.
The park is comprised of 42 small islands. For a seamless and stress-free experience in the park, consider opting for a private tour that offers essential equipment and navigation guide services.
3.Snorkeling at Koh Tao and Walk on Nan Yuan's Iconic Sandbar
Koh Nan Yuan SandbarAs two most popular island-hopping destinations from Koh Samui, the neighboring Koh Tao and Koh Nan Yuan are worth your visit in a day.
On Koh Tao, which is renowned for its vibrant marine life and stunning hard corals, you can swim with tropical fish and discover beautiful coral reefs in crystal-clear waters.
While On Koh Nang Yuan, walking on its picturesque sandbar that connects three small islets is a one-of-a-kind experience. Try to climb up one of its small, rocky, jungled hills to the viewpoint to capture a panoramic view of nearby islands.
4. Explore Na Muang Waterfall
Na Muang WaterfallNeed a break from the beach? Na Muang Waterfall is your perfect jungle escape! Just 30 minutes' drive from Chaweng, this stunning waterfall is known for its purple-hued rocks (that's what "Na Muang" means!).
There are main two waterfalls to explore: Na Muang 1 - Easy 5-minute walk from parking. Wade in the cool pool below the falls or snap Instagram shots from the giant boulders. For families with young kids, this one's shallow pools are good for water playing and swimming.
If you want to do some hiking in the forest, choose Na Muang 2 - 30-minute jungle hike uphill. Your reward? A taller, more dramatic waterfall with a deep swimming hole – it is good to jump in to cool off!
5. Enjoy the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan
Koh PhanganIf you love beach parties with live music, dancing, and over-night celebrations, the Full Moon Party on Koh Phangan could be a special experience.
Every month (full moon day), Haad Rin Beach transforms into an open-air nightclub under the moonlight, with thousands of travelers dancing barefoot in the sand until sunrise. Enjoy Fire shows & neon body paint – The beach comes alive with performers and glowing party-goers! End your night watching the sun come up over the ocean.
How Many Days to Spend and Sample Itinerary
To cover the highlights of Koh Samui, it is recommended to spend at least 4 days in Koh Samui. While 5–7 days allow for more time-consuming activities, such as island-hopping, or a more relaxed schedule. Here is a sample itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Koh Samui and relaxed at your beachfront hotel for the rest day.
Day 2: A day tour to Koh Tao and Koh Nang Yuan with snorkeling.
Day 3: A day tour to Ang Thong Marine Park with Kayaking
Day 4: Beach relaxation (spa, massage) and departure.
With more time, consider spending a day to hike and explore the famous Na Muang Waterfall and its forest trail. If you are interested in local culture, spend a day to visit the Big Buddha Temple, Lamai night market, or Fisherman's Village.
Best Time to Visit Koh Samui
The best time to visit Koh Samui is generally from December to March during the dry season. You can expect sunny skies, lower humidity levels, and comfortable temperatures (27-29°C) , which is ideal for outdoor activities.
This period is also the busiest time of a year at Koh Samui, especially around Christmas/New Year holiday. Hotels and flights are easily booked up. And the price tends to go up. Due to the high demand, you're suggested to prepare your tour at least 3 months in advance.
April to June is the shoulder season, with temperatures getting warmer (25-30°C). During this period, you can save some money by taking advantage of discounts offered by many hotels.
For families with kids traveling during the summer holiday, Koh Samui is a great destination with warm weather and calm seas. Thailand's west coast (e.g. Phuket) suffers from monsoon storms during this period, while the east coast, where Koh Samui is located, is far less affected, offering a good alternative.
The monsoon season (low season) in Koh Samui is from September to November, with October and November the rainiest. But the rain doesn't last long, and it brings cooler temperatures. If you don't mind the occasional rain, you could enjoy fewer crowds, and lower prices. Read more about best time to visit Koh Samui.
Where to Stay in Koh Samui
Koh Samui resortsIn Koh Samui, there are main three beach areas accommodations: Chaweng, Bophut, and Maenam beaches. Each provides a wide range of accommodation options.
Chaweng Beach: the vibrant nightlife and party scene — it's Koh Samui's most lively and popular beach. It's a great choice if you are looking to stay close to restaurants, bars, and shopping areas.
Bophut: If you prefer a more charming and traditional setting, Bophut's Fisherman's Village is a great choice. It is close to Friday night markets, featuring beachfront dining, boutique stays, and stunning sunsets.
Maenam Beach: Ideal for those seeking peace and quiet —It's a good option for families and those looking for a relaxing beach experience. Its long beach and shallow waters provides a safe swimming spot for young kids.
How to Get to and Around Koh Samui
Getting to Koh Samui: Domestic cities such as Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Krabi offer direct flights to Koh Samui, with a flight time of around 1-2 hours. For international travelers, there are several cities in Asia such as Hong Kong, and Singapore offering direct flights, with a flight time of around 2-3 hours.
Getting around Koh Samui: Speedboat or ferry is the best way to travel to the nearby islands. Just 30-45 minutes by speedboat, you can reach the famous Koh Phangan for Full Moon Parties or Koh Tao (or nearby Koh Nang Yuan) for world-class diving. It costs 1.5hrs by tour boat to Ang Thong Marine Park for nature escapes.
How Much Does It Cost in Koh Samui
Compared with other islands, such as Phuket, Koh Samui is relatively expensive due to its higher level's resorts and upscale services.
While Koh Samui comes with a higher price, the island usually offer a more private and secluded atmosphere, ideal for travelers looking for peace and relaxation, away from the crowds.
The following is the estimated travel costs for Koh Samui:
| Category | Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation |
4-star beachfront: $150–180/night, 5-star luxury: $200–500+/night |
Peak season rates increase by 30–40% (Dec–Jan). Early booking advised. |
| Transport |
Domestic flights (major cities → Koh Samui): $100–180/person, Ferry/Speedboat(to nearby islands): $50–100/person |
Price varies by distance (e.g., Koh Phangan, Koh Tao). |
| Private tour | Island-hopping private tour (full day): $150–200/day | Includes private boat/car + guide. |
| Dining |
Mid-range restaurants: $30–50/meal, Fine dining:$100–150+/meal |
Seafood and premium venues cost more. |
| 5-Day Phuket Tour | About $1,200/person (based on 2 travelers, 4 -star hotels) | Covers private tours, accommodation, and transfers. |
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